Old Testament
Jeremiah 20:14
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Jeremiah 20:14, the prophet expresses deep anguish and despair over his existence.
- Author
- Jeremiah the prophet, with Baruch
- Written
- Around 600 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah before and during the Babylonian exile
Cursed be the day I was born! Let the day my mother gave birth to me never be called blessed.
Cursed be the day wherein I was born: let not the day wherein my mother bare me be blessed.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Jeremiah 20:14, the prophet expresses deep anguish and despair over his existence. He feels that the day of his birth should be cursed rather than celebrated, reflecting his intense suffering and the burdens of his prophetic calling. Jeremiah's lament highlights the emotional toll of being a messenger of God, especially when faced with rejection and persecution. His words reveal a profound sense of isolation and hopelessness, as he grapples with the weight of his mission and the pain it brings. This verse captures the struggle between the call to serve God and the personal anguish that can accompany such a calling. Jeremiah's feelings resonate with anyone who has faced overwhelming challenges, reminding us that even the most faithful servants can experience deep sorrow and questioning about their purpose and worth.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Jeremiah 20:14 to your life
When facing overwhelming challenges, it's important to acknowledge our feelings of despair and seek support. Like Jeremiah, we can express our struggles honestly to God. This verse encourages us to remember that even in our darkest moments, we are not alone, and our feelings are valid.
Curated for this public verse page. Jeremiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Jeremiah 20:14 mean?
Jeremiah 20:14 expresses the prophet's deep sorrow and regret about his existence, wishing that the day he was born should be cursed instead of celebrated. This reflects his intense suffering and the heavy burden he feels as a prophet.
What is the significance of cursing the day of birth in Jeremiah 20:14?
Cursing the day of his birth signifies Jeremiah's profound despair and the emotional toll of his prophetic mission. It highlights his feelings of isolation and hopelessness in the face of rejection and persecution.
How does Jeremiah 20:14 relate to feelings of despair?
Jeremiah 20:14 resonates with anyone experiencing overwhelming challenges, as it illustrates the struggle of expressing deep sorrow and questioning one's purpose. It serves as a reminder that such feelings are valid and shared by others.
What themes are present in Jeremiah 20:14?
The themes in Jeremiah 20:14 include despair, prophetic burden, isolation, suffering, and questioning existence. These themes reflect the emotional struggles faced by those called to serve a greater purpose.
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